Smoking laws in Spain, which include the Canary Islands, have become increasingly strict over the past decade. As of now, smoking is prohibited in all indoor public spaces, including bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and workplaces. This applies not only to traditional tobacco products but also to electronic cigarettes and vapes.
While smoking indoors is strictly regulated, the rules for outdoor spaces such as terraces and beaches are somewhat more relaxed but still subject to restrictions.
Smoking on open-air terraces of bars and restaurants is generally permitted, provided that the area is not enclosed or covered by more than two walls and a roof. However, individual establishments may impose their own stricter rules, particularly if local regulations require it.
Some regions, particularly in the Canary Islands, have implemented further restrictions. For example, smoking is banned on many beaches to reduce pollution and protect public health. These bans are part of broader efforts to create smoke-free environments in areas where people gather for leisure.
Vaping is treated similarly to traditional smoking under Spanish law. The use of e-cigarettes is banned in the same indoor public spaces where smoking is prohibited. This means no vaping in enclosed public spaces, public transport, or around children's playgrounds.
On terraces, vaping is generally allowed, but again, local laws or individual businesses may enforce stricter rules.
The Spanish government has been considering tightening smoking laws even further, with a particular focus on outdoor smoking. Proposals include extending smoking bans to more outdoor spaces, such as all bar and restaurant terraces, bus stops, and more public beaches.
The Canary Islands have shown particular interest in leading these changes, given their focus on promoting health tourism and maintaining clean environments.
In 2024, Spain's Ministry of Health announced plans to review the current smoking laws, with potential reforms aimed at reducing smoking rates across the country. This includes possible measures to:
- Ban smoking on all restaurant and bar terraces: There is significant public support for this move, as it would protect non-smokers from second-hand smoke in public dining areas.
- Increase restrictions on vaping: As vaping becomes more popular, there is growing concern about its health impacts, leading to discussions about placing vaping under the same restrictions as smoking.
- Expand smoke-free zones: More public spaces, including parks, beaches, and outdoor sports venues, may become smoke-free in the near future.
These potential changes are part of Spain's broader public health strategy, which aims to reduce smoking prevalence in the country. The proposed reforms are still under discussion and would require approval by Parliament before they could be implemented.
Public opinion in Spain, including the Canary Islands, is generally supportive of stricter smoking regulations, particularly in public spaces. Health advocacy groups have long pushed for tougher laws, citing the harmful effects of second-hand smoke and the environmental damage caused by cigarette waste.
However, the hospitality industry has expressed concerns about the impact of these laws on businesses, particularly bars and restaurants that rely on their outdoor spaces. There is ongoing debate about how to balance public health with the economic interests of these establishments.
